Torquay fisherman targeted by rod cast that left hook embedded in cheek: PICTURE

Police in Torquay are appealing for witnesses after a fisherman in a boat was "deliberately targeted" by a shore based fisherman, leaving a hook embedded in his cheek.

The victim, a man, aged in his 30’s was fishing off Hopesnose Torquay at around 6.30am on Sunday July 13 in his 19ft Orkney fastliner boat.

A police spokesman said: "It appears that the boat was deliberately targeted by a shore based fisherman by ‘casting’ his rod in the boats direction.

"On this occasion the victim was struck and a hook was embedded in his left cheek.

There were a large number of shore based fisherman in the area at the time and police are appealing to them for information to identify the offender who is believed to have left prior to police attending."

Police are also advising anglers of the seriousness of such actions and the injuries that it can cause.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting police reference CR/08931/14 or alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or report online at www.Crimestoppers-uk.org.